Children seeing dangling from Leicestershire railway bridge

A warning has been issued by Leicestershire Police after children were seen dangling from a railway bridge in Loughborough.

In a post on social media, local officers said new fences have been installed along the lines of the Great Central Railway in Loughborough because of an increase in incidents of trespass.

As part of the post, the officers included images of young people walking on the tracks and dangling from the bridge. 

Leicestershire Police are also said to be working alongside the British Transport Police, Heritage Police, Rural Police, and Great Central Railway and Heritage Volunteers to help keep people safe this summer as more activities take place on the tracks.

Drones are also being deployed as part of the action to combat the issue.

"Everyone Has a Part to Play Your awareness helps keep the railway safe for passengers, staff, volunteers, and our community. So, if you are out capturing photos, enjoying the countryside, or simply passing by—please use designated areas and stay clear of the tracks. Let us make this a safe and enjoyable season for all. Your safety matters. Stay safe – PCSO 6130 Gaynor" 

One of the local treasures we’re fortunate to have running through our villages is the Great Central Railway – the UK’s only double-track heritage railway. It’s a unique feature of our area, with its steam trains offering a nostalgic experience and a chance to see history in motion. 

General Manager Malcolm Holmes said:

"Trespass is a problem most railways face whether part of the national rail network or a heritage line like the Great Central Railway. We have an obligation to protect our staff, passengers, and the general public, and that means taking proportionate measures to prevent unlawful access to our infrastructure, particularly where there is a risk of injury, death or vandalism. Particular problem spots for us are in the Birstall area and also on the outskirts of Loughborough. At one footbridge in Loughborough (the one featured in images released by the police with children hanging from the bridge) we have been working with law enforcement and local residents to discourage trespass and vandalism that has resulted in disruption to the local community and our trains as well as the evident dangers to themselves such behaviours pose. In this instance we have erected temporary fencing and installed CCTV to deter dangerous behaviour whilst we work on a permanent solution."